Australian Politics Forum - Chinese car comparisons

MeisterEckhart

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Re: Chinese car comparisons
Reply #45 - Apr 26^th, 2026 at 9:48pm

Bobby. wrote on Apr 26^th, 2026 at 8:32pm:

What would be a good budget car to buy new in 2026?

Google AI:

Top 10 Most Affordable New Cars (2026)

The following list represents the most affordable new cars available, ranked by base price (excluding on-road costs unless specified as drive-away):

With the Chinese models, they throw in a free frypan and a bag of bolts and parts they didn't fit on the vehicle during manufacture.

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Baronvonrort Gold Member Offline Australian Politics Posts: 20589 Gender:	Re: Chinese car comparisons Reply #46 - Apr 26^th, 2026 at 9:56pm I wouldn't buy a Chinese car there is no long term data on them.
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Bobby.

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Re: Chinese car comparisons
Reply #47 - Apr 26^th, 2026 at 9:56pm

What would be a good budget car to buy new in 2026?

Google AI:

Top 10 Most Affordable New Cars (2026)

The following list represents the most affordable new cars available, ranked by base price (excluding on-road costs unless specified as drive-away):

Kia Picanto: Starting from $19,190 (manual) / $20,790 (automatic) before on-roads.

MG 3: Starting from $20,990 before on-roads, or $21,990 drive-away for the Vibe variant.

Chery Tiggo 4: Starting from $23,990 drive-away (Urban).

Mahindra XUV 3XO: Starting from $23,990 drive-away (AX5L).

GWM Haval Jolion: Starting from $23,990 drive-away (Premium).

Suzuki Swift: Starting from $24,990 before on-roads (manual).

GAC Emzoom: Starting from $25,590 before on-roads.

MG ZS: Starting from $25,990 before on-roads.

BYD Atto 1: Starting from $23,990 before on-roads (Essential, 30kWh battery).

Hyundai Venue: Starting from $23,000 before on-roads (manual).

Key Market Insights

Electric Options: The BYD Atto 1 is the most affordable fully electric car, starting at $23,990 before on-roads, offering a 220km range on the base model.

Hybrid Availability: Budget buyers can also access hybrid variants, such as the MG 3 Hybrid+ (from $29,430 before on-roads) and the Suzuki Swift Hybrid (from $24,490 drive-away).

Warranty Standards: Most budget models, including those from Kia, MG, GWM, Chery, and Mahindra, offer seven-year unlimited-kilometre warranties, while Hyundai and Suzuki offer five-year unlimited-kilometre warranties.

Price Trends: The only new car under $20,000 is the Kia Picanto; all other competitive options start between $19,190 and $26,531 drive-away.

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Bobby. Gold Member Online Australian Politics Posts: 119391 Melbourne Gender:	Re: Chinese car comparisons Reply #48 - Apr 26^th, 2026 at 9:58pm Baronvonrort wrote on Apr 26^th, 2026 at 9:56pm: I wouldn't buy a Chinese car there is no long term data on them. You get a 7 year warranty on some of them like the Chery Tiggo 4 - but it has a petrol, 1.5 litre turbo - how long will a Chinese turbo last?
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MeisterEckhart

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Re: Chinese car comparisons
Reply #49 - Apr 26^th, 2026 at 10:08pm

Bobby. wrote on Apr 26^th, 2026 at 9:58pm:

Baronvonrort wrote on Apr 26^th, 2026 at 9:56pm:

I wouldn't buy a Chinese car there is no long term data on them.

You get a 7 year warranty on some of them like the Chery Tiggo 4 -

but it has a petrol, 1.5 litre turbo -
how long will a Chinese turbo last?

How far do you live from the dealer?

From Google AI :

Manufacture problems with the Chery Tiggo 4 (particularly the Pro and 2025 models) often involve urgent recalls for safety software, unreliable infotainment/Apple CarPlay connectivity, jerky reversing cameras, and issues with build quality like rattling and water ingress. The vehicle is also criticised for having a stiff, uncomfortable ride and unresponsive, light steering.

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Bobby.

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Re: Chinese car comparisons
Reply #50 - Apr 26^th, 2026 at 10:22pm

MeisterEckhart wrote on Apr 26^th, 2026 at 10:08pm:

Bobby. wrote on Apr 26^th, 2026 at 9:58pm:

Baronvonrort wrote on Apr 26^th, 2026 at 9:56pm:

I wouldn't buy a Chinese car there is no long term data on them.

You get a 7 year warranty on some of them like the Chery Tiggo 4 -

but it has a petrol, 1.5 litre turbo -
how long will a Chinese turbo last?

How far do you live from the dealer?

From Google AI :

Manufacture problems with the Chery Tiggo 4 (particularly the Pro and 2025 models) often involve urgent recalls for safety software, unreliable infotainment/Apple CarPlay connectivity, jerky reversing cameras, and issues with build quality like rattling and water ingress. The vehicle is also criticised for having a stiff, uncomfortable ride and unresponsive, light steering.

yes - I have read all those horror stories. Embarrassed

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Baronvonrort

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Re: Chinese car comparisons
Reply #51 - Apr 26^th, 2026 at 10:25pm

Bobby. wrote on Apr 26^th, 2026 at 9:58pm:

Baronvonrort wrote on Apr 26^th, 2026 at 9:56pm:

I wouldn't buy a Chinese car there is no long term data on them.

You get a 7 year warranty on some of them like the Chery Tiggo 4 -

but it has a petrol, 1.5 litre turbo -
how long will a Chinese turbo last?

If they claim normal wear and tear warranty doesn't cover it.

Long term data take Mitsubishi Lancer 2008-2015 really good car only problem is ABS pump is faulty they will all suffer this problem from a design fault.
It's a $3K replacement usually with same faulty ABS pump.
The 2016 onwards Lancers have different ABS pump they don't get this expensive problem.
Long term data shows pre 2016 Lancers should be avoided.

Chinese cars haven't been around long enough to see what long term durability is like.

I wouldn't buy a Turbo.
1. They need 98 octane fuel
2. The Turbo service is expensive even more if you fail to do it
3. Don't need a Turbo with our speed limits and speed cameras

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Bobby.

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Re: Chinese car comparisons
Reply #52 - Apr 26^th, 2026 at 10:33pm

Baronvonrort wrote on Apr 26^th, 2026 at 10:25pm:

Bobby. wrote on Apr 26^th, 2026 at 9:58pm:

Baronvonrort wrote on Apr 26^th, 2026 at 9:56pm:

I wouldn't buy a Chinese car there is no long term data on them.

You get a 7 year warranty on some of them like the Chery Tiggo 4 -

but it has a petrol, 1.5 litre turbo -
how long will a Chinese turbo last?

If they claim normal wear and tear warranty doesn't cover it.

Long term data take Mitsubishi Lancer 2008-2015 really good car only problem is ABS pump is faulty they will all suffer this problem from a design fault.
It's a $3K replacement usually with same faulty ABS pump.
The 2016 onwards Lancers have different ABS pump they don't get this expensive problem.
Long term data shows pre 2016 Lancers should be avoided.

Chinese cars haven't been around long enough to see what long term durability is like.

I wouldn't buy a Turbo.
1. They need 98 octane fuel
2. The Turbo service is expensive even more if you fail to do it
3. Don't need a Turbo with our speed limits and speed cameras

I don't trust turbos on any car -
they spin at 100,000 rpm -
they can't last forever.

In some ways you're better off buying an older car with low kms
than forking out megabucks for new cars.

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Baronvonrort

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Re: Chinese car comparisons
Reply #53 - Apr 26^th, 2026 at 10:50pm

Turbos are great for chasing power.
The Honda Turbo in Senna/Prost McLaren Formula 1 ran over 4 bar boost (60 psi) put out 1200 hp in qualifying trim from a 1.5 L engine.

You don't need a turbo for a car that will be a daily driver.

I worked on a few twin turbo Maseratis nice cars expensive to own.

Take a new car off the showroom floor and you instantly lose $$$ Thousands.

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Bobby.

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Re: Chinese car comparisons
Reply #54 - Apr 26^th, 2026 at 11:05pm

Baronvonrort wrote on Apr 26^th, 2026 at 10:50pm:

Turbos are great for chasing power.
The Honda Turbo in Senna/Prost McLaren Formula 1 ran over 4 bar boost (60 psi) put out 1200 hp in qualifying trim from a 1.5 L engine.

You don't need a turbo for a car that will be a daily driver.

I worked on a few twin turbo Maseratis nice cars expensive to own.

Take a new car off the showroom floor and you instantly lose $$$ Thousands.

It's only a 1.5 litre - the Chery Tiggo 4 -
it's far simpler to increase it to say 2 litres to get more power
and would be far more reliable.

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Baronvonrort

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Re: Chinese car comparisons
Reply #55 - Apr 26^th, 2026 at 11:26pm

Bobby. wrote on Apr 26^th, 2026 at 11:05pm:

Baronvonrort wrote on Apr 26^th, 2026 at 10:50pm:

Turbos are great for chasing power.
The Honda Turbo in Senna/Prost McLaren Formula 1 ran over 4 bar boost (60 psi) put out 1200 hp in qualifying trim from a 1.5 L engine.

You don't need a turbo for a car that will be a daily driver.

I worked on a few twin turbo Maseratis nice cars expensive to own.

Take a new car off the showroom floor and you instantly lose $$$ Thousands.

It's only a 1.5 litre - the Chery Tiggo 4 -
it's far simpler to increase it to say 2 litres to get more power
and would be far more reliable.

1.5 would be alright in hybrid electric motor add some zip.

Had a go of a Yaris hybrid has 1.5L engine with electric motor and battery.

Fuel economy around 3.8L/100Km city and highway.

Didn't hear engine when in reverse maybe it uses electric motor for that.

Toyota have perfected Hybrids lots of experience going back to Prius

https://www.carexpert.com.au/car-reviews/2025-toyota-yaris-review

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Bobby.

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Re: Chinese car comparisons
Reply #56 - Apr 26^th, 2026 at 11:36pm

The End of Car Ownership: Why Mechanics Beg You to Avoid 2026 Cars.

Mar 6, 2026

In this video, we explore the challenges and complexities of car ownership in 2026, focusing on why mechanics are urging consumers to avoid the newest models. We discuss the increasing difficulty of repairs, advanced technology integration, and the rising costs associated with maintaining modern vehicles. Viewers will gain insights into the future of automotive ownership, the impact of electric and autonomous cars, and why traditional car repairs are becoming more complicated and expensive. Stay informed about the evolving automotive landscape and what it means for drivers and mechanics alike.

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Bobby.

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Re: Chinese car comparisons
Reply #57 - Apr 26^th, 2026 at 11:42pm

Baronvonrort wrote on Apr 26^th, 2026 at 11:26pm:

Bobby. wrote on Apr 26^th, 2026 at 11:05pm:

Baronvonrort wrote on Apr 26^th, 2026 at 10:50pm:

Turbos are great for chasing power.
The Honda Turbo in Senna/Prost McLaren Formula 1 ran over 4 bar boost (60 psi) put out 1200 hp in qualifying trim from a 1.5 L engine.

You don't need a turbo for a car that will be a daily driver.

I worked on a few twin turbo Maseratis nice cars expensive to own.

Take a new car off the showroom floor and you instantly lose $$$ Thousands.

It's only a 1.5 litre - the Chery Tiggo 4 -
it's far simpler to increase it to say 2 litres to get more power
and would be far more reliable.

1.5 would be alright in hybrid electric motor add some zip.

Had a go of a Yaris hybrid has 1.5L engine with electric motor and battery.

Fuel economy around 3.8L/100Km city and highway.

Didn't hear engine when in reverse maybe it uses electric motor for that.

Toyota have perfected Hybrids lots of experience going back to Prius

https://www.carexpert.com.au/car-reviews/2025-toyota-yaris-review

I am not sold on Hybrids -
when the expensive battery needs replacing all the fuel you've saved doesn't mean much -
plus the extra initial price of buying that feature.

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Sprintcyclist

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Re: Chinese car comparisons
Reply #58 - Apr 27^th, 2026 at 12:50am

Bobby. wrote on Apr 26^th, 2026 at 11:42pm:

Baronvonrort wrote on Apr 26^th, 2026 at 11:26pm:

............ 1.5 would be alright in hybrid electric motor add some zip.

Had a go of a Yaris hybrid has 1.5L engine with electric motor and battery.

Fuel economy around 3.8L/100Km city and highway.

Didn't hear engine when in reverse maybe it uses electric motor for that.

Toyota have perfected Hybrids lots of experience going back to Prius

https://www.carexpert.com.au/car-reviews/2025-toyota-yaris-review

I am not sold on Hybrids -
when the expensive battery needs replacing all the fuel you've saved doesn't mean much -
plus the extra initial price of buying that feature.

the chery tiggo 4 was a well targetted product.
very easy to live with, enough power for the commuter it is, cheap to run, buy and live with

yes, cabbies have used hybrid camrys for decades

Our current hire car is a corolla hybrid, hatchback
only had it one day, quiet smooth, used very little fuel, easy to drive
am assuming it has a small 4 cylinder atkinson petrol.
With a battery to add to the torque, don't need a lot of starting torque

I think toyota hybrids use battery power for under 20 or so km/h, petrol after that

wow, yes 1.8 or 2 liter inthe corollas, pretty underpowered so will be an atkinson
60 MPG. The auto will never break.

https://media.toyota.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/pdf/240429-Corolla-Tech-Sp...

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« Last Edit: Apr 27^th, 2026 at 12:55am by Sprintcyclist »

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MeisterEckhart

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Re: Chinese car comparisons
Reply #59 - Apr 27^th, 2026 at 6:51am

Bobby. wrote on Apr 26^th, 2026 at 10:22pm:

MeisterEckhart wrote on Apr 26^th, 2026 at 10:08pm:

Bobby. wrote on Apr 26^th, 2026 at 9:58pm:

Baronvonrort wrote on Apr 26^th, 2026 at 9:56pm:

I wouldn't buy a Chinese car there is no long term data on them.

You get a 7 year warranty on some of them like the Chery Tiggo 4 -

but it has a petrol, 1.5 litre turbo -
how long will a Chinese turbo last?

How far do you live from the dealer?

From Google AI :

Manufacture problems with the Chery Tiggo 4 (particularly the Pro and 2025 models) often involve urgent recalls for safety software, unreliable infotainment/Apple CarPlay connectivity, jerky reversing cameras, and issues with build quality like rattling and water ingress. The vehicle is also criticised for having a stiff, uncomfortable ride and unresponsive, light steering.

yes - I have read all those horror stories. Embarrassed

Your post question: 'What would be a good budget car to buy new in 2026?' highlights a semantic sales trick: that Cheap = good.

Cheap is cheap.

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